If you’re craving a restaurant-style dinner with minimal effort and maximum flavor, this Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl with Herb Rice is your new go-to. It combines juicy seared shrimp with a luxuriously creamy garlic butter sauce and a bed of herb-infused rice that soaks up every drop. Perfect for weeknight dinners or date-night indulgence, it’s a dish that feels elegant but comes together in under 30 minutes.

The golden sear on the shrimp brings a hint of smokiness, while the butter and garlic melt into a luscious cream sauce that coats each bite beautifully. Paired with the freshness of chopped parsley and light citrusy notes, this bowl is both comforting and refreshing, a true showcase of how a few good ingredients can create something truly irresistible.

What Makes the Garlic Butter Shrimp So Creamy and Flavorful?

The secret lies in the balance of ingredients. Heavy cream mixed with butter and garlic is the holy trinity of this dish, creating a rich sauce that clings perfectly to the shrimp and rice. A squeeze of lemon at the end adds brightness, while a dash of smoked paprika deepens the flavor profile. Using large shrimp also helps ensure a juicy, meaty texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce.

Ingredients for the Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl

Shrimp: Use large or jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined. Their meatiness makes them the perfect base for soaking up the creamy garlic butter sauce.

Butter: Unsalted butter forms the rich, silky base of the sauce. It helps the garlic bloom without burning.

Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is key for bold flavor. Don’t skimp!

Heavy Cream: Adds luxurious creaminess that balances the savory garlic.

Smoked Paprika: Brings warmth and depth to the shrimp seasoning.

Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon brightens and balances the richness of the butter.

Parsley: Adds freshness and color contrast to the dish.

Cooked Herb Rice: This is the perfect canvas. Use rice seasoned with parsley, dill, or basil for an aromatic touch that pairs beautifully with the creamy shrimp.

How To Make the Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl

Step 1: Sear the Shrimp

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of butter and let it melt. Add the shrimp in a single layer and season with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 1-2 minutes per side until they turn golden and slightly charred. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Base

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add more butter. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Be careful not to brown it—just enough to bloom the aroma.

Step 3: Create the Cream Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and stir it into the butter and garlic mixture. Let it simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until it slightly thickens. Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and adjust salt to taste.

Step 4: Combine Shrimp and Sauce

Return the seared shrimp to the skillet, coating them thoroughly in the creamy garlic butter sauce. Let them simmer together for 1-2 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowl

Scoop your warm herb rice into serving bowls and spoon the creamy shrimp over the top. Make sure to drizzle some of that sauce over the rice too. Garnish with fresh parsley and another squeeze of lemon if desired.

How to Serve and Store Your Shrimp Bowl

Serve this dish warm, ideally right after cooking when the shrimp is still juicy and the sauce is velvety. A side of roasted veggies or a crisp green salad balances it perfectly.

If you have leftovers, store the shrimp and rice separately in airtight containers. They’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of cream to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking to get that beautiful sear.

What herbs go best in the rice?

Parsley, dill, and basil are great choices. You can also use a pre-mixed herb blend or fresh cilantro for a brighter twist.

Can I make this dairy-free?

You can substitute the butter and cream with plant-based alternatives like vegan butter and coconut cream. The flavor will shift slightly but still be delicious.

How spicy is this dish?

It has a warm, smoky kick from the paprika, but it’s not spicy. Want heat? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Can I meal prep this?

Absolutely. Cook everything ahead and store separately. Assemble and reheat when ready to serve.

What can I serve with this bowl?

It pairs wonderfully with roasted asparagus, steamed broccoli, or even naan bread to mop up the extra sauce.

Want More Seafood Dinner Ideas?

If you’re loving this Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl, here are more seafood-inspired dishes from Life with Nina that bring bold flavor to your table:

Best Marinated Grilled Shrimp with citrus and herbs for a smoky twist.
Creamy Shrimp Chowder that’s perfect for cozy nights.
Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta if you’re in the mood for something bold and spicy.
Easy Creamy Polenta Shrimp for rich comfort food done right.
Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna to take garlic shrimp to the next level.

Looking for even more recipes? Head over to my Pinterest page where I post daily meal ideas, dinner bowls, and flavor-packed favorites from my kitchen.

Delicious Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl Recipe with Herb Rice

Author: Nina Johnson
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 2 to 3 servings 1x
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Print Recipe

Description

A rich and satisfying shrimp bowl made with seared shrimp in creamy garlic butter sauce, served over fragrant herb rice. This easy dinner is packed with flavor and perfect for busy weeknights or elegant weekends.